Interview with a perfumer, Céline Ellena

Celine Ellena is one of the most reputed noses in the perfume business. We popped in to ask her a few questions...

In terms of scents, what are the new trends for this season?Hot spices. Dark patchouli, bright red flowers, sensuous white, rose vein and mother of pearl plants for their freshness. Snow evokes Chantilly cream and Italian meringue. We're also seeing a gourmand tendency, with forests, vanilla pods and fruit.

Who do they suit the most?There's something for all tastes! Spicy, oriental fragrances appeal to sophisticated, ultra-feminine women; gourmand notes will capture the attention of romantics, nature-lovers and epicureans. Startling, fresh ingredients will delight curious, modern ladies.

What does a Christmas perfume bring to mind for you?Pleasant childhood memories. A house in the countryside, the small hours of the morning, the moment when we light the candles on the Christms tree. The odor of hot wax blending with that of the prickly honeydew tree. Over that, I imagine the smell of the crumpled up wrapping paper taken off freshly opened presents.

What fragrane would you most like to create for Christmas?A scent that's sweet and cold, hot and spicy... something that makes us think we're at home with those we love, sheltered from everything, and reminding us of times gone by! A fragrance that's neither sexy nor glamorous: a perfume that any member of the family could wear, sort of creating an extra bond.